Park Ridge is 'Stigma Free Zone'

By Kathryn a. Burger

Staff Writer |

Pascack Valley Community Life

Park Ridge has committed itself to improving the lives of those affected by mental illness by joining the "Stigma Free Zone" program. Resolution 170 was approved at the May 27 council meeting, giving the go-ahead for the formation of a task force comprised of borough officials and community group representatives. Council members Ryan Cangialosi and June Bertini are spearheading the effort.

Cangialosi said, "Forming the task force is the first step. We'll make a list of groups and organizations to approach about having a representative participate in the initiative."

Schools, businesses owners, civic organizations and mental health providers, as well as the Board of Health are among the groups that will be contacted, he said.

Once the representatives are on board, Cangialosi said, "We'll have a meeting and discuss choosing a direction for the project. And we're going to need a corporate or private sponsor to fund the campaign."

The first Bergen County municipality to join the effort was Paramus, which started its program last year. Now, a number of Bergen County municipalities are considering joining as well.

The mission of the program is to help community members understand that mental illness is just that - an illness - and with proper treatment people with mental illness can lead productive, fulfilling lives. It is also intended to encourage people to seek professional help if they suspect they may have mental health concerns.

Last month, the Bergen County Freeholders declared the county a "Stigma Free Zone." Cangialosi said there is a move to have the county prepare a "starter kit" for municipalities who join the program.

"Right now, we are building the foundation" of Park Ridge's program Cangialosi said. Once the task force has been assembled, a planning meeting will be scheduled to chart the program's course.

Park Ridge is 'Stigma Free Zone'

By Kathryn a. Burger

Staff Writer |

Pascack Valley Community Life

Park Ridge has committed itself to improving the lives of those affected by mental illness by joining the "Stigma Free Zone" program. Resolution 170 was approved at the May 27 council meeting, giving the go-ahead for the formation of a task force comprised of borough officials and community group representatives. Council members Ryan Cangialosi and June Bertini are spearheading the effort.

Cangialosi said, "Forming the task force is the first step. We'll make a list of groups and organizations to approach about having a representative participate in the initiative."

Schools, businesses owners, civic organizations and mental health providers, as well as the Board of Health are among the groups that will be contacted, he said.

Once the representatives are on board, Cangialosi said, "We'll have a meeting and discuss choosing a direction for the project. And we're going to need a corporate or private sponsor to fund the campaign."

The first Bergen County municipality to join the effort was Paramus, which started its program last year. Now, a number of Bergen County municipalities are considering joining as well.

The mission of the program is to help community members understand that mental illness is just that - an illness - and with proper treatment people with mental illness can lead productive, fulfilling lives. It is also intended to encourage people to seek professional help if they suspect they may have mental health concerns.

Last month, the Bergen County Freeholders declared the county a "Stigma Free Zone." Cangialosi said there is a move to have the county prepare a "starter kit" for municipalities who join the program.

"Right now, we are building the foundation" of Park Ridge's program Cangialosi said. Once the task force has been assembled, a planning meeting will be scheduled to chart the program's course.